If your Alberta-based food or bio-industrial business is ready to turn raw agricultural products into higher-value goods, the Alberta Value-Added Program can help cover a big share of your costs. This non-repayable grant offers up to $250,000 to support processing, manufacturing, and market-ready upgrades that grow Alberta’s agri-food sector.
Below is a clear breakdown of how the program works, who qualifies, and what expenses are covered—so you can decide if it fits your next project.
The Value-Added Program is part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP), delivered by the Government of Alberta. It supports food processors and bio-industrial processors that add value to Alberta-grown agricultural products through processing, manufacturing, or transformation activities.
The program is split into two funding streams, based on your business size and project scope:
Funding is cost-shared, meaning you pay part of the project cost and the program reimburses the grant portion after approval.
To apply, your business must meet all core eligibility criteria set by the program.
You may be eligible if you:
Stream A
Stream B
Startups without sales generally do not qualify. The program is designed for operating businesses with proven revenue.
The Alberta Value-Added Program offers substantial support, depending on your project size.
This funding is non-repayable, as long as you meet the program terms and complete your approved project.
The program supports both capital and non-capital expenses, each with different cost-sharing rules.
Examples include:
The program covers 25% of approved capital costs.
Examples include:
You get back 50% of non-capital costs. This helps if you are expanding your business.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly confirm which stream and expense types fit your business profile.
Timing matters when applying for the Alberta Value-Added Program. The government opens and closes intake periods for applications, so check the program website for the latest updates.
Planning ahead helps you avoid missing out on funding or having expenses rejected.
While intake periods can vary, the application process generally includes:
Always review the current program guidelines before applying.
Starting the project too early
Costs incurred before written approval are not reimbursed.
Including ineligible expenses
General operating costs or unrelated marketing often get rejected.
Applying under the wrong stream
Revenue thresholds are strict and verified.
Weak project justification
Applications must clearly show how the project adds value to agricultural products in Alberta.
Q: Is the Alberta Value-Added Program funding repayable?
No. This is a non-repayable grant, provided you meet all program conditions.
Q: Can startups apply for the Value-Added Program?
Most startups do not qualify because the program requires minimum annual sales of $25,000 for Stream A.
Q: What is considered a value-added product?
A value-added product is created when an agricultural input is processed or transformed into a higher-value good, such as turning raw grains into packaged food products.
Q: Is Value-Added Program funding taxable?
In many cases, grant funding is considered taxable income in Canada. Check with your accountant for advice specific to your business.
Q: Can I apply for both Stream A and Stream B?
No. You must apply under the stream that matches your annual sales level.
The Alberta Value-Added Program can cover a meaningful share of your processing or expansion costs—but only if your project fits the rules exactly. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada, including Alberta agri-food funding. Use it to see which programs match your business, your revenue level, and your expansion plans before you apply.
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